Jackson, though, is reportedly the Nets' top target, according to ESPNNewYork.com. Despite his agent's comments, a source told ESPN that Jackson would entertain an approach from Brooklyn as his recent flirtation with the Lakers has him "thinking about coaching again." The Nets job "would definitely interest" Jackson, a person with knowledge of Jackson's thinking told CBSSports.com.

Jackson nearly returned for a third stint as Lakers coach earlier this season, but a whirlwind, drama-filled process resulted in Mike D'Antoni taking over for the fired Mike Brown.

The Nets, according to multiple reports, are expected to conduct a full search, but GM Billy King said at a Thursday press conference announcing Johnson's dismissal that interim coach PJ Carlesimo had "all our support."

"Will we look other places? We may," King added.

Carlesimo has been an NBA coach three times, most recently with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008-09. He was fired after the team started the season 1-12. His career record is 204-296, though he has been a successful college head coach and NBA assistant.

In all likelihood, the Nets will make a run at a name coach—such as Larry Brown, Nate McMillan or Jeff Van Gundy. Jeff's brother, Stan Van Gundy, has no interest in the Nets job, according to the Orlando Sentinel. Brooklyn attempted to build a title contender around Deron Williams this offseason, though that obviously hasn't paid off. The Nets were 14-14 when Johnson was fired.